Discover how cannabis contributes to wellness. Learn about its role in holistic health and lifestyle balance.
*“Skinny weed”* refers to the cannabinoid THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin), a non-intoxicating cannabis compound that is showing promise as an appetite suppressant by blocking the CB1 receptor. Unlike THC, which triggers the munchies, THCV seems to do the opposite.
Acne is estimated to affect approximately 95% of people aged between 11 and 30 years old and is the eighth most common skin disease worldwide. In the UK specifically, it’s one of the most common skin conditions, with the country in the top 10 globally for diagnoses in adolescents and young people. Our skin contains part of the endocannabinoid system, the complex cell-signalling network responsible for keeping our skin healthy by regulating important bodily processes like inflammation and oil (sebum) production.
We all know the stereotype: men don't discuss their wellbeing, and often struggle to ask for help. This is even more true when it comes to mental health issues. This Men's Health Week, we are flipping it. Drawing on what 1,118 male patients told us about medical cannabis, plus the first-hand stories of four of them, we look at what happens when men stop putting it off and actually do something about how they feel.
In November 2025, Releaf commissioned the largest UK medical cannabis patient survey ever conducted (1,669 responses). This cohort analysis examines women treated for conditions such as endometriosis, menopause symptoms, severe period pain, and PMDD, covering reported treatment effectiveness, speed of perceived benefit, quality of life changes, daily functioning, side effects, stigma, and confidence using prescribed medication in public and when travelling.
Upper back pain can feel tight, sharp, or persistent, often affecting the area between your shoulder blades. This guide explains common causes, what different pain patterns may mean, and the treatment options that can help, including when to seek medical advice and where medical cannabis may fit into a wider pain management plan in 2026.
Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical support. This guide explains the entire gamut of lower back pain, what causes it, and the treatment options that may help, including medical cannabis, physiotherapy, exercises, and when to seek further care.
This Men’s Health Month, Releaf's study of active UK medical cannabis patients (the largest to date) shows how men are using treatment to improve their quality of life, reduce chronic pain, support their mental and general wellbeing, and move beyond outdated stigma. The data reflects a wider shift toward openness, ownership, and long-term health management among men seeking more stable and effective support.
Living with a chronic health condition can have a significant impact on many aspects of everyday life, often making access to support services essential. Thankfully, in the UK there is a wide range of organisations dedicated to offering services for a range of challenges from support for chronic illness and mental health to free financial and addiction services.
Can cannabis really help with period pain? We break down a 2022 review exploring THC, CBD, and the science behind medical cannabis for menstrual cramps.
Around the world, a growing number of people are becoming aware of the potential health benefits of cannabis and its derivatives. Cannabinoids like CBD and THC are becoming increasingly recognised for their therapeutic properties, but knowledge of other cannabis compounds, such as cannabichromene (CBC) often remains limited. We’re on a mission to inform you about this lesser-known cannabinoid - so, let’s learn!
Most people have heard of CB1 and CB2 receptors, but cannabinoids affect far more than just those two targets. This blog explores the wider network of receptors and brain chemicals that shape how cannabis works in the body. For UK patients, it’s a step toward more informed, personalised treatment.
World Breastfeeding Week is upon us, taking place from the 1st to the 7th of August. In honour of this important international event, we’re taking a closer look at everything you need to know about the guidelines and evidence related to medical cannabis and breastfeeding, the implications for yours and your baby’s health, and our stance as a medical cannabis clinic in the UK.
ADHD diagnoses are on the rise, and more adults are searching for support that actually works. We spoke to Releaf psychiatrist Dr Imran Ali about what's driving the shift, why access remains a challenge, and how medical cannabis is helping some patients reduce anxiety, improve focus, and feel more in control of their symptoms.
When it comes to our health, it’s often the voices of those who know us best that guide us forward. This International Day of Friendship, we highlight how personal connection, and personal recommendation through Releaf’s Refer-a-Friend scheme is helping real individuals here in the UK support the ones they love.
Chronic pain, sleep difficulties, and reduced mobility often increase with age - but often, so does wisdom. In this latest edition of our Real Patient Voices series, we share the experiences of Peter, Mary, and Simon - Releaf patients in their 60s, 70s, and beyond - who turned to cannabis-based treatments later in life. From managing trigeminal neuralgia to regaining energy in the garden, their stories highlight how it’s never too late to explore new approaches to wellbeing.
In many parts of the world, alcohol consumption is simply an accepted part of life. Many of us use alcohol to unwind with friends, when we're catching up with family, or to celebrate all manner of special occasions - and for most, such consumption is nothing to be concerned about. But it is important to be able to draw the distinction between healthy and unhealthy relationships with alcohol. As we recognise Alcohol Awareness Week, we're taking a closer look at the implications of alcohol use for our health and wellbeing. We'll explore its relationship and potential interactions with medical cannabis and provide practical advice for maintaining a healthy relationship with alcohol.
More than 100,000 people across the UK have completed Releaf’s free medical cannabis eligibility checker and created a secure patient account. This isn’t just a number. It reflects a growing shift in how patients think about their health, and a not-so-quiet turning point in how UK medical cannabis is seen, accessed, and supported.
What mattered most for UK medical cannabis patients in 2025? In this midyear review, we spotlight one Releaf blog per month, covering legality, absorption, stigma, stop and search, and more. Each post is written to inform and empower patients navigating a changing clinical and legal landscape.
Medical cannabis is becoming increasingly popular among patients seeking holistic alternatives to conventional therapies. As such, it is important to be aware of the interactions between cannabis and other compounds found in medications and our diet, including omega-3 fatty acids. We’re taking a look at the potential complementary benefits of using medical cannabis in combination with omega-3 - an essential nutrient for many aspects of our health.
Gynaecology is an often overlooked area of healthcare. But with almost a third of women and people with wombs estimated to experience severe reproductive health problems, empowering women to recognise and address the signs and symptoms is vital. In honour of Cervical Screening Awareness Week, we're taking a closer look at the most common gynaecological conditions and exploring the importance of listening to your body and advocating for your health.
Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or teacher, it’s vital to ensure children stay safe around medical cannabis. This blog covers expert advice, safe practices, and guidance on having age-appropriate conversations.
Why do some people carry fear long after danger has passed, or react to safe situations in the same way as when they are in actual danger? A new cross-species study explores how 2-AG, a molecule in the brain’s endocannabinoid system, may influence trauma responses. The findings offer fresh insight into PTSD, fear generalisation, and the potential role of cannabinoid-based treatment.
Each year at the end of May, World Digestive Health Day is celebrated all around the globe. In honour of this important awareness campaign, we’re taking a closer look at the role of digestive health, and the potential benefits of medical cannabis for certain digestive health disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease and Crohn’s disease.
Brain fog is a common symptom of a number of health conditions; however, it can also be associated with lifestyle factors, hormones, and some medications. In this article, we’re exploring the causes of brain fog, recommended ways of tackling its symptoms, and whether medical cannabis could be helpful.
Welcome to our second instalment of ‘Medical cannabis and me: Real patient voices’ our new blog series that shares real patient voices, their insights, and accounts of their experiences, with medical cannabis.
April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month - a month dedicated to raising awareness around this common type of cancer and providing support and resources to those affected. Around 120 people are diagnosed with the condition - which includes both colon and rectal cancers - every day in the UK. In honour of this important awareness campaign, we’re taking a closer look at the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer, conventional treatments, and how medical cannabis could be helpful for some patients.
Stress isn’t just a feeling - it’s a full-body chain reaction and one that shouldn't be ignored (especially when it becomes chronic). This write-up explains what stress really is, how it affects the brain and body, and how UK medical cannabis may help regulate the system when chronic stress takes hold.
Every month, we have the luxury of sitting down with real Releaf patients to hear their stories, from their struggles to their successes, to their experiences with medical cannabis
The Releaf CBD store is open to anyone with an email address, a registered UK phone number, and a delivery address, and offers UK residents a new way to access the best CBD products - no UK medical cannabis prescription needed.
Releaf has integrated with NHS Spine, allowing patients in England to instantly share their medical records via NHS login, streamlining the sign-up process for medical cannabis treatment. This milestone not only improves patient access and continuity of care but also helps normalise cannabis-based medicines within mainstream healthcare systems.
Historically, women have faced disproportionate challenges when it comes to receiving adequate and effective healthcare. While there is still a long way to go, there have been significant improvements in the recognition of women’s health conditions and the treatments available. In this article, we’re taking a deep dive into the gender health gap, the progress that has been made over the last few decades, and what still needs to be done.
Here in the UK, the NHS means so much to us. It’s the backbone of healthcare, providing free, universal access to desperately needed care. But, it cannot be denied that the NHS is under enormous strain and pressure right now.
In today’s busy world, we are constantly exposed to the highlights and ‘best bits’ of other people’s lives, it can be easy to think of happiness as a final destination. But this International Day of Happiness, we want to get back to basics. It’s time to re-focus on the simple things that have the potential to bring us joy and happiness every day. In this spirit, we’re exploring the importance of a holistic approach to our physical and mental health, well-being, and of course, happiness.
Ahead of the Rugby Six Nations finals this month, we’re exploring how medical cannabis could aid recovery off the pitch and provide relief for athletes suffering from long-term injuries.
This Saturday the world will once again observe International Women’s Day, an annual celebration of the achievements of women and girls around the world. But while we might have come a long way in improving equality, women continue to face disparities in many areas of life, including healthcare.
On Saturday the 8th of March, International Women’s Day is celebrated. Dedicated to recognising the achievements, resilience, and strength of women around the world, International Women’s Day is something we’re proud to take part in here at Releaf. This year, we’ve decided to celebrate by sharing five inspirational stories from women in the UK accessing medical cannabis through our services.
It is estimated that around 26 million people in the UK live with at least one long-term health condition. Many of these individuals also experience poor mental health, such as anxiety or depression, which may also require treatment. In this article, we explore how medical cannabis therapy could help to address both the physical manifestations of various health conditions, as well as some commonly comorbid mental health problems.
Recovery from an eating disorder looks different for everyone. To mark the beginning of Eating Disorder Awareness Week (24 February-2 March 2025) this blog explores the potential role of medical cannabis, to support quality of life and wellbeing, as part of that journey.
Diet has been linked to a huge number of health conditions, many of which represent a significant risk of morbidity. Yet, while many of us may make a conscious effort to eat a relatively healthy diet, we may overlook how different diets can benefit or exacerbate certain existing health conditions.
The 6th of February is the UK’s annual Time to Talk Day, an awareness event that aims to kickstart conversations around mental health. In honour of this important date, we’re discussing the importance of awareness of the mental health struggles commonly encountered during menopause. Personalised care is crucial in effectively managing menopause symptoms and achieving adequate relief - and medical cannabis could play a surprising role.
Cancer affects the lives of millions of people around the world and everyone’s story is different. As a clinic offering personalised medical cannabis treatment, Releaf is embracing the theme for World Cancer Day on Tuesday 4 February and advocating for patients to be front and centre of their care.
Ahead of Parent Mental Health Day (Thursday 30 January) we’re breaking down the stigma around medical cannabis and parenting with the real-life stories of those who have found improved health and wellbeing for themselves and their families as a result.
Every year on the 23rd of January, National Reading Day is recognised - a campaign to encourage a lifelong habit of reading from childhood to adulthood.
As we progress into the New Year, thousands of people around the country (and the world) are embracing lifestyle changes, from cutting back on their alcohol intake for Dry January to setting targets for improving their mental health.
While surgical complications are statistically rare, the period of recovery can be fraught with its own challenges.
The hectic festive season is finally drawing to a close, which can only mean one thing: hundreds of thousands of people across the country will be taking part in Dry January.
At Releaf, our mission is to enhance the quality of life of individuals across the UK by giving them back control of their health. And throughout 2024, as well as providing patient-focused care and unwavering support through our expert clinical and patient support teams, we’ve had the privilege of speaking with our patients one on one to find out more about their health journeys.
We all suffer from bloating, cramping, and constipation from time to time, but certain conditions and medications can make these symptoms particularly problematic.
Explore the potential of medical cannabis in 2025 as an alternative healthcare option in the UK. Learn how Releaf helps patients address health concerns like anxiety, chronic pain, and more with personalised, patient-centred treatment plans. Discover the benefits, conditions eligible for treatment, and how to take the first step toward a healthier you this New Year.
While most people look for alternative treatment options because conventional medicines haven’t met their needs, an increase in prescription drug shortages in the UK is leaving more patients without access to effective medications.
With extended families coming together and immediate families typically spending long periods of time together over the Christmas period, catching up on what everyone has been up to over the last year is a common course conversation takes.
The days are drawing in and Christmas is right around the corner. Many of us will be working our way down Christmas lists, trying to find the perfect presents for our loved ones.
Medical cannabis has demonstrated therapeutic potential across a wide range of conditions and symptoms, including muscle spasms.
Around the world, 1.3 billion, or 1 in 6, people live with a disability - yet many face barriers when accessing adequate healthcare services. At Releaf, it's important to us to participate in events like International Day of Persons with Disabilities, and so that’s exactly what we’re doing.
World AIDS Day takes place every year on the 1st of December, and has done since 1988. We’d like to honour this year's campaign by raising the awareness of one treatment option many affected by HIV aren’t even aware is available to them: medical cannabis.
THC edibles and THC gummies are among the most popular and potentially therapeutically effective medical cannabis products available to UK medical cannabis patients, but they work a little differently to other formats. Taken by mouth, they pass through the digestive system, so the effects build gradually and tend to last longer than inhaled or sublingually administered cannabis product.
Unfortunately, not many actually know what a pancreas does, until it starts causing them health concerns that is, and what makes this even more worrying is that pancreatic cancer is the 10th most common cancer in the UK.
November is National COPD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and the prevention and treatment of chronic lung disease. In honour of this important event, we’re taking a closer look at the relationship between medical cannabis and chronic lung disease and answering the question: “Can I vape medical cannabis if I have COPD?”
Millions of people in the UK are living with the effects of long covid. As many of the symptoms overlap with those of other conditions that can be managed with cannabis-based medicines, there is a growing interest in medical cannabis treatments for this population.
World Diabetes Day takes place every year on the 14th of November and this year, we’d like to contribute to the cause and raise awareness for medical cannabis - an alternative option for diabetes symptom management in the UK.
Being kind can mean a lot of things to a lot of people. It can mean taking out your elderly neighbour’s bins every week or going out of your way to make a loved one - or even a stranger - feel appreciated. But it can also mean taking care of yourself by making considered choices for a healthier and more well-rounded life.
As new findings from an early health economic analysis suggest that prescribing medical cannabis on the NHS to treat chronic pain could save the state healthcare provider almost £4 billion every year, we take a closer look at the research.
We all experience stress occasionally— and sometimes it can even be useful. But if left unchecked it can become problematic, particularly for those living with long-term health conditions, the symptoms of which can be exacerbated by stress.
Cannabis is an extremely complex and versatile species, with different plants potentially containing a distinct range and different concentrations of various compounds. Take terpenes, for example. There are estimated to be more than 200 terpenes present in cannabis, with different combinations contributing to the variable features and properties of different cultivars. However, these aromatic and often therapeutic compounds are far from unique to cannabis.
Medical cannabis has been a legal treatment option in the UK for just shy of six years now. However, it’s only within the past twelve months that the UK media has started to embrace the therapeutic potential of this remarkable plant, and its derivatives. This has recently led to a marked shift in public opinion and understanding of cannabis-based treatments.
Medical cannabis was legalised almost 6 years ago as an alternative treatment option for a large volume of health conditions when conventional approaches have proved ineffective.
Tomorrow is World Hospice and Palliative Care Day, which falls on the second Saturday of October each year and marks a time to reflect on the importance of compassionate and effective care for those facing life-limiting and terminal illnesses.
Every year, on the 10th of October, World Mental Health Day is celebrated on an international scale. Drawing attention to the prevalence of mental health conditions in modern society, and advocating for better support, treatment, and awareness, World Mental Health Day takes on a new theme every year and in 2024 it’s workplace mental health.
As we find ourselves ever deeper into the autumn months, the shorter days and colder nights are once again becoming the new normal. However, while most people might notice changes in the weather and their motivation in the colder months, many people living with chronic conditions may also become aware of worsening symptoms.
For many patients, medical cannabis is the last in a long list of therapies attempted to ease their symptoms. Successful management of their condition can mean being able to return to work, being more present with friends and family, and even rediscovering old passions and hobbies.
To those looking for inspiration, we hope these testimonial snippets offer the encouragement you need to explore alternative options. Hallmark - take note - some of these stories are truly Oscar worthy!
Sleep is an essential process that allows our bodies and minds to repair themselves and function effectively. Getting enough high-quality sleep is therefore vital for maintaining our overall physical and mental health. Yet, research shows that a significant portion of the population is not getting enough sleep - with many suffering from sleep disorders. We’re taking a look at how medical cannabis treatment could be beneficial in treating common sleep disorders from insomnia to sleep apnoea.
Medical cannabis has become increasingly accessible and accepted in recent years. However, accessing cannabis-based products - even from legal sources - can have an impact on everyday life. From medicating in public or even the comfort of your own home to driving and employment, there are many things to consider when becoming a medical cannabis patient.
World Suicide Prevention Day takes place every year to tackle stigma and raise awareness of this major global health issue and how it can be prevented.
Pain is an extremely complex symptom that can be linked to a wide range of sources and conditions. But while most people experience pain as an occasional and temporary disruption, many experience it as a more significant burden that significantly affects their quality of life. This may be due to the development of certain medical conditions which can be associated with different types of pain.
Decisions surrounding palliative care are something that almost all of us will face at some point in our lives, whether for ourselves or for someone we care deeply about. But before that time comes, it's a subject that is often avoided or at least slightly misunderstood.
There are 100 different subtypes of sarcoma, and collectively they account for fewer than 2% of all cancer diagnoses in the UK. But still, each and every day 15 people in the UK receive the news that they’ve been diagnosed with sarcoma, also known as the loneliest cancer.
With so many active compounds, medical cannabis products can be extremely complex when it comes to finding the appropriate dosing regime. Finding the right cannabis-based medicine for each patient can depend on a number of factors, including your condition, the product used, and the most effective dose - the latter of which is best found through titration.
The vast majority of patients experiencing chronic pain are women, yet one in two say they have had their pain “ignored” or “dismissed”. We take a close look at the gender pain gap.
CBD flower and medical cannabis cultivars are often conflated, but while they may look and smell similar, there are significant differences when it comes to their chemical composition, intended use, regulatory status, and effects. CBD flower is illegal in the UK, while medical cannabis flower can only be prescribed by a specialist doctor.
In recent years, many people’s working life has changed significantly. The Coronavirus pandemic saw more people than ever working from home or being forced to shift careers completely. But with such drastic changes to our way of working, ensuring a healthy work-life balance is as important as ever.
With those deployed in the Armed Forces at greater risk of experiencing mental health conditions such as PTSD, we explore the potential benefits of medical cannabis treatment among the veteran community.
It’s Men’s Health Week - an annual week-long event that aims to raise awareness about the health challenges faced by men. As organisations from across the country come together to provide relevant information and improve access to vital health services for boys and men in the UK, we’re taking a closer look at the role of mental health charities in providing these services and improving men’s mental health.
Men’s Health Week is an annual international initiative aimed at providing awareness and education on health issues specific to men. The week serves as an important reminder for men to prioritise their health and well-being while also opening up an avenue of conversation where men can feel comfortable discussing their health concerns without any fear of judgement.
As the health of our planet begins to deteriorate, the importance of adopting a greener way of life has never been more apparent. But could making some simple eco-friendly changes be just as beneficial for our own health? In the latest instalment of our Wellness Wednesdays series, we explore the health and environmental implications of adopting a more sustainable lifestyle.
The practice of mindfulness is as ancient as many of the world’s most followed religions, from Hinduism and Buddhism to Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. While it is often connected with Eastern traditions and philosophies, mindfulness techniques have been popular among many populations throughout the world for millennia. So, what is mindfulness? And how could practising mindfulness help improve your wellbeing?
This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, taking place from 13-19 May, 2024 is all about movement — and why it’s so important for our mental health. Can medical cannabis help get people moving more? We take a look.
Fibromyalgia is an incurable chronic pain condition and one that can be pretty complicated to treat. It affects around 2 percent of the UK population, more women than men, and while it does sometimes develop in children, it is more often picked up in middle age.
The concept of homeostasis defines any self-regulating process by which biological systems maintain stability and balance. This physiological regulation is essential for maintaining a constant internal environment, allowing us to thrive - even in the face of changing external conditions. In this instalment of our Wellness Wednesdays blog, we’ll be taking a look at the importance of homeostasis and exploring natural and holistic ways we can help support our bodies in achieving balance.
The world of medicine has evolved beyond all recognition over the last two centuries, with the widespread rollout of vaccines, the development of countless pharmaceuticals, and a more detailed understanding of the body and the forces that affect it. Yet, as more people seek an alternative approach to their health, traditional therapeutic techniques are once again becoming more popular, including ancient practices like Ayurvedic medicine.
As part of our Experts explain series, we sat down with Dr Sue Clenton, an expert Oncologist and Specialist Consultant at Releaf, to speak about medical cannabis treatments and chronic pain.
Pain is the most common reason for medical intervention worldwide. While many of us will have a stash of over-the-counter painkillers in our medicine cupboard, these are not always sufficient for relieving our pain. But with the undesirable side effects of stronger pain medications, more people than ever are looking for natural pain relief. So, what are some of the best natural and holistic pain management techniques that really work?
Our bodies contain an intensely complex network of receptors, enzymes and neurotransmitters, each playing a vital role in our overall functioning, health, and wellness. Dopamine and serotonin, for example, are two neurotransmitters known for their role in mood, pleasure, and motivation. So, what can we do to give our bodies a natural boost of these important chemicals?
It’s International Women’s Day (IWD) - a day dedicated to celebrating the diverse and incredible contributions of women throughout history and continuing the fight toward gender equity and inclusion. As part of our Wellness Wednesday series, and in celebration of IWD 2024, this article highlights the work of some of the most inspiring women in the health & wellness industry today.
To celebrate National toothache day, we thought it would be appropriate to sink our teeth into the topic of dentistry in the landscape of medical cannabis, and discuss how cannabis use can affect and impact oral health.
Although Dry January drew to a close last week, the benefits of staying sober can be felt year round, and enjoying alcohol in moderation is one of the best ways to naturally boost your overall health and general wellbeing.
This week holds special significance because Sunday was Race Against Dementia Day, a day that brings awareness to a condition that affects almost 10% of those over 65 in the UK. So, we decided to mark this day by discussing an aspect of Dementia care that is often overlooked: the carers themselves.
In this week’s Wellness Wednesday, Releaf takes a look into the annual vegan awareness month Veganuary to learn why people do it, the benefits and risks, how to replace your protein sources to ensure you get the complete selection and consider other important health aspects of the diet like adding in supplements.
When December comes to a close, a lot of us adopt a ‘new year, new me’ philosophy and are eager to set targets and new year resolutions to become the best version of ourselves. While we set our sights high, sometimes despite our best interest, the cold, dark and busy winters can feel draining, and finding the motivation to keep up momentum can be a challenge.
The new year is a perfect time to set new health habits and start the way you intend for it to go on. There's no need to reinvent yourself overnight, but introducing one or two new habits that are easy to stick to can make a significant impact over the year.
In the chill of winter, our immune system requires some extra TLC to stay strong. While vaccines offer targeted protection against individual viruses, other holistic practices and easy measures can fortify our bodies natural defences, and equip them with extra armour.
When you’re suffering from health issues, the first thing that should be considered is diet. Eating food doesn’t just stop us from feeling hungry, as I’m sure you are all aware. It was the founding father of modern medicine, Hypocrites, who said, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” That quote is from around 2,400 years ago, but it still rings true today.
Earlier this month, Self Care Week was celebrated all over the UK - but we think its importance rings true all year round. That’s why we’ve launched our latest blog series: Wellness Wednesday; to take a look at alternative, natural and holistic approaches to improving our wellbeing.
